Marginalize

Marginalize is a verb meaning to place someone or a group at the margins of society, limiting their access to resources, participation, or influence. The term derives from marginal, meaning at the edge, with the suffix -ize indicating action.

In sociology and political science, marginalization refers to the processes and structures that systematically exclude or diminish the social, political, or economic power of certain groups. It can be intentional or the result of institutional design, cultural norms, or economic conditions. Examples include exclusion from political participation, unequal schooling, limited employment opportunities, or barriers to healthcare and housing. Groups often affected include racial and ethnic minorities, immigrants, people with disabilities, indigenous peoples, religious minorities, women in certain contexts, and LGBTQ+ people, especially when multiple identities intersect.

Effects of marginalization include reduced life chances, poorer health outcomes, stigmatization, and weakened political voice. Addressing marginalization involves inclusive policies, anti-discrimination laws, universal design, targeted outreach, and efforts to increase representation and access to resources. The concept is widely used in analyses of inequality, social cohesion, and human rights.